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There is so much to see and do in the Leicester Square area, with its shows and cinemas, wine bars and restaurants, making it an ideal location for a getaway. Leicester Square is right in the thick of London's West End and is close to many world-class theatres. The beating heart of British cinema, all the major film premieres happen here, where many famous faces can be spotted.

It's not all about showbiz, however. In the Square you'll find a small garden area with plenty of benches on which to sit and have a break. Enjoy a coffee and watch the world go by at the Shakespeare fountain.

Things to do

No matter your age, there is something for everyone if you’re staying in one of the hotels near Leicester Square. Night owls will love the busy bars and clubs that really get going on Friday and Saturday evenings, while families can enjoy themed stores such as M&M World which, at 35,000 square feet, is the largest sweet store in the entire world!

Only three minutes’ walk away, Ripley's Believe It or Not offers a fun-filled few hours. A huge oddity museum with some fascinating displays, including shrunken human heads and rare animal skeletons, it really is a must-see. While at Ripley's, take a wander around the famous Piccadilly Circus and perhaps stop for a breather at the Shaftesbury memorial fountain, home of the iconic Eros statue.

The less excitable may prefer a visit to The London Transport Museum, situated in Covent Garden, about an eight-minute walk from Leicester Square. Travel back in time through 200 years of public transport history, all arranged thematically throughout.

Be sure to visit Trafalgar Square, a four-minute walk away, admire Nelson’s Column before heading to the National Gallery. The gallery is home to some of the finest examples of European art. Masterpieces include Holbein's ‘The Ambassadors’, Constable's ‘The Hay Wain’ and Jan Van Eyck's ‘Arnolfini Marriage’.

Eating in Leicester Square

No matter who you are, there is something for you when it comes to food in Leicester Square. Visit nearby Chinatown and enjoy some of the best Chinese food you will ever taste, and be sure to visit the China Town Bakery for some delicious Asian sweet treats.

Families will love some of the themed restaurants in the area, such as The Rainforest Café, where you can dine amongst creatures of the jungle and be part of a real jungle monsoon! Or Planet Hollywood, where you can mingle with the stars themselves, along with some great movie memorabilia.

Ice cream to go? Easy, at one of the many famous ice cream retailers on the Square, such as Ben and Jerry's or Haagen Daaz.